Heading to Hawaii

Southwest Airlines said Thursday it will begin offering flights to Hawaii, with tickets going on sale next year.

The Dallas-based airline will soon begin the public application process to obtain the Federal Aviation Administration certification that allows aircraft to operate between the mainland and Hawaii.

Though the airline has not indicated which routes it will offer to the state, airline officials said they are evaluating the possibility of offering flights between the islands as well.

“We’re thrilled to bring Hawaii next year as an option to more than 115 million customers who already fly with us annually,” said Mike Van de Ven, the airline’s chief operating officer.

Seven airlines currently operate direct flights between the mainland and Hawaii, including United, Delta and Hawaiian Airlines, according to travel search engine Skyscanner.

Southwest shares rose 0.4 percent Thursday.